From Hollywood to honky-tonk: Mel’s Drive-In set to open in Nashville this summer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — A slice of vintage Hollywood history will be cruising into Music City very soon.

Mel’s Drive-In, the retro diner you may recognize from American Graffiti, which is also a West Coast icon that’s been around for a decade, is set to open its first location right here in Music City next month. The new location will land on Nashville’s historic Second Avenue, marking a major milestone for the family-owned chain.

Founded in 1947 in San Francisco by Mel Weiss and Harold Dobbs, Mel’s Drive-In helped define the post-war American dining experience, known for its classic carhop service, neon signage, and all-day menu of diner staples. Over the years, Mel’s has become more than just a diner; it’s also a well-recognized and nostalgic brand in California, recently partnering with artists and influencers like Snoop Dog, Lana Del Rey, Machine Gun Kelly, and Skims.

Now, the third generation of co-owners, Chasen and Colton Weiss, are taking the legacy out across the states, and Nashville was first on their list.

“We’ve always seen Mel’s as a symbol of American tradition,” said Colton Weiss. “And Nashville, with its music history and welcoming energy, felt like the perfect fit.”…

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